How to Capture a Screenshot on a Chromebook: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Hey there, readers! Need help capturing a screenshot on your Chromebook? We’ve got you covered with this in-depth guide. Whether you want to save a web page, share an error message, or preserve a precious moment, we’ll show you how to do it all.
In this article, you’ll learn about the different methods to take screenshots, explore the options for capturing full pages, and even discover how to record screencasts. Plus, we’ve included a handy table to summarize everything for you.
Partial Screenshot
Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut
The quickest way to capture a partial screenshot is to press Ctrl + Shift + Window Switcher (the key next to the Alt key). This will open a small tool that allows you to select the area you want to capture.
Method 2: Cropping Tool
You can also take a partial screenshot using the cropping tool. Press Ctrl + Shift + F5 to open the screenshot editor, then click on the "Rectangle" icon. Draw a rectangle around the area you want to capture, and the editor will save it as a PNG file.
Full-Page Screenshot
Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut
To capture an entire web page, press Ctrl + Shift + F5. The screenshot will be saved as a PDF file.
Method 2: Developer Tools
Alternatively, you can use the Developer Tools to take full-page screenshots. Open the Developer Tools (Ctrl + Shift + I), then click on the "Toggle device toolbar" icon (the one with the mobile device and a tablet). Select "Capture full size screenshot" from the menu.
Recording a Screencast
If you want to capture both the visual and audio elements of your Chromebook, you can record a screencast.
Method 1: Native Screen Recorder
Chromebooks have a built-in screen recorder that can be accessed from the Quick Settings menu. Click on the "Screencast" tile, select the recording area, and hit the "Record" button.
Method 2: Chrome Extensions
There are also a number of Chrome extensions that can be used to record screencasts. Some popular options include Screencastify and Loom.
Table of Screenshot Methods on Chromebook
| Method | Shortcut | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Partial screenshot (selected area) | Ctrl + Shift + Window Switcher | PNG file |
| Partial screenshot (cropped) | Ctrl + Shift + F5 (cropping tool) | PNG file |
| Full-page screenshot | Ctrl + Shift + F5 | PDF file |
| Full-page screenshot (Developer Tools) | Ctrl + Shift + I (Developer Tools), "Toggle device toolbar", "Capture full size screenshot" | PNG file |
| Screencast (native) | Quick Settings menu, "Screencast" tile | MP4 file |
| Screencast (extension) | Various Chrome extensions | MP4 file |
Conclusion
There you have it, folks! Now you’re equipped with all the knowledge you need to take screenshots and record screencasts on your Chromebook. Whether you’re saving essential information, capturing bugs, or preserving memories, we hope this guide has made the process a breeze.
Don’t forget to check out our other articles for more tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your Chromebook.
FAQ about how to take screenshot on Chromebook
How to take a full-screen screenshot?
Press Ctrl + Show Windows (usually located where F5 is on a regular keyboard).
How to take a partial screenshot?
Press Ctrl + Shift+ Show Windows to capture a draggable selection of the screen.
How to capture a region of the screen?
Press Ctrl + Shift + Show Windows, then drag your cursor to select the desired region.
How to take a screenshot of the active window?
Press Alt + Show Windows.
How to save a screenshot?
After taking a screenshot, it is automatically saved to the "Downloads" folder.
How to copy a screenshot to the clipboard?
After taking a screenshot, press Ctrl + C to copy it to the clipboard.
How to view screenshots?
Open the "Files" app and go to the "Downloads" folder.
How to share screenshots?
Right-click on the screenshot in the "Files" app and select "Share".
Why is the "Show Windows" key not working?
Some Chromebooks have a dedicated "Screenshot" button instead.
Can I customize the screenshot shortcuts?
Yes, you can go to "Settings" > "Keyboard" > "Keyboard shortcuts" to modify the screenshot shortcuts.
